Children's Health

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​Immunizations

Once you become a parent, your whole life changes, as do your responsibilities. Between changing diapers, figuring out dinner for your family, getting them to baseball practice or dance lessons, anything on top of that can be stressful. But, those additions can be important. Immunizing your child is one of the best things you can do as a parent.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), vaccination is one of the best ways to protect your children from 16 potentially harmful diseases. Vaccine-preventable diseases can be very serious, may require hospitalization, or even be deadly – especially in infants and young children.

What vaccinations does the CDC recommend for my child?

The CDC provides immunization schedules for newborns to age 18 in English and Spanish. In addition, if your child is under the age of six, you can create your own immunization schedule for your child. The CDC’s site also provides information about the vaccines, diseases and more. Don’t panic if you look at the schedule and find you’re behind or that your child missed a shot. Go back to your child’s doctor or health clinic for the next shot.

What are Indiana’s immunization requirements?

The CDC recommends immunizations for your child; however, each state decides which immunizations are required for your child's enrollment and attendance at a child care facility or school. Indiana requires several vaccinations before children are allowed to enter school.

In Indiana, you must show proof of your child’s immunizations to your school or daycare provider. The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) maintains an Immunization Information System, Children and Hoosier’s Immunization Registry Program (CHIRP). If you live in Indiana, you can get your child’s immunization record online, after getting a PIN number from your physician.

If you live in another state, you can enter your information to learn theimmunization requirements in your state.

Where can my child get vaccinations?

Super Shot – Funded by the Allen County community and provides immunizations for a nominal fee for children age 6 months to 18 who are uninsured/underinsured or who participate in Medicaid. No one will be turned away for inability to pay. Super Shot maintains a calendar with times and locations. Appointments are not necessary. Call (260) 424-SHOT for more information.

Allen County Department of Health – Provides immunizations for a nominal fee. If you have insurance that pays for vaccines you will also have to pay the cost of the vaccine. When you make an appointment, the approximate costs will be given. Due to an unpredictable vaccine supply, not all vaccines are available at all times for children. Please call (260) 449-7514 for more information.

What should I do if I have more questions?

If you have questions or concerns about vaccinations, talk to your child’s doctor. For more detailed information, call the CDC at (800)-CDC-INFO or visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines.